The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) recently opened the application period for the Marketing to Attract Tourists Program.
The program will be awarding $6 million in grants.
“Tourism generates over $76 billion a year for Pennsylvania’s economy and supports more than 486,000 jobs,” Anne Ryan, DCED deputy secretary of tourism, said. “The Marketing to Attract Tourists Program will create demand for new visitor experiences, destinations, and events that in turn will give Pennsylvanians more opportunities to pursue their passion, support their families, and thrive.”
Applications will be accepted from organizations planning to provide a new visitor experience in one of three program areas: big stage events, the great American getaway co-op, and secure more in sports.
Big stage events is open to those attempting to attract large events such as conferences, conventions and concerts. Funding can be used for costs such as marketing, production, receptions, rental costs, shuttles, and speakers.
The great American getaway co-op is open to tourism-related businesses and destination marketing organizations partnering to develop a culinary, historical/cultural, outdoor, or urban travel experience.
Secure more in sports is open to those seeking to secure new consumer, league, youth, amateur or professional sporting events that will result in a large influx of visitors.